Symptoms

If left untreated, tinea capitis may cause permanent hair loss and scarring.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your child may need to be referred to a specialist. A dermatologist focuses on skin issues.

The diagnosis is often made with close inspection of the scalp. If the diagnosis is uncertain, the doctor may scrape your child’s scalp or clip a few hairs for testing.

Tests on the sample may include:

Microscopic examination

Fungal culture

Treatment

The main treatment for tinea capitis is prescription antifungal medications. The condition can be difficult to treat. In some cases, tinea capitis can return after treatment. For some children, the condition goes away during puberty.

Using an antifungal shampoo may help to reduce the risk of spreading the condition to others.

Prevention

To help reduce your child’s chance of tinea capitis:

Shampoo your child’s hair regularly.

Do not allow your child to share headgear, brushes, or combs.

Wash towels, clothes, and any shared items used by an infected person to prevent spreading it to others in the household.

Take your pets to the veterinarian for treatment if they develop skin rashes.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.